Motor City Mechanics

[HockeyFan70]

Just wondering if anyone has heard where the Mechanics Organization has settled. Last I heard they were thinking of Traverse City. Also, what are the plans for expansion? Indiana, Ohio, Allentown Pa. and Williamsport?

[patmc16]

The latest that I have heard is that the franchise has been sold and that the new owner plans on keeping the team in the Detroit market. The plan apparently is to revive the team next season at the Michigan State Fairground Coliseum which was built in 1922 asnd seats 5,600. The bad thing is that it is not in the best of neighborhoods. The corner of 8 Mile (of Eminem fame) and Woodward, where it is located, is known more for the prostitutes than for hockey. I don't know if the team name will remain the same or not, but it will be the same franchise.

[nksports]

The corner of 8 Mile (of Eminem fame) and Woodward, where it is located, is known more for the prostitutes than for hockey.

You have to take advantage of these unique marketing opportunities.

(Bob Segers' "Fire Down Below" hits the PA system as the team takes to the ice) "Ladies and gentlemen, lets give a big Detroit welcome to your 2007-08 MOTOR CITY MADAMS!!!!"

[patmc16]

Well, as of now at least, the Mechanics are planning on returning to the UHL next season. The former season ticket holders are now receiving calls about the team. The message I received said that everything will be he same as before except home ice, which will be at fair grounds. Other than that they plan on having the same name, logo, colors, uniforms, league, etc. Apparently they are trying to get Garry Unger back as head coach. He was the team's original head coach, until the NHL'ers came along late in the first season. His Mechanics were a debacle, but he has a good coaching record everywhere else he has been. It seems that the new owner has been in contact with Chris Chelios too, about being involved with the team in some capacity. He played with the team in the strike year and has said before that he may play with the Mechanics again after retiring from the NHL.

[PigOut]

The plan apparently is to revive the team next season at the Michigan State Fairground Coliseum which was built in 1922 asnd seats 5,600.
Here are pictures of the Michigan State Fairgrounds Coliseum, and the rink/seats.

[COACHRUD]

I just found out from the new owner that the Mechanics will not be playing next season; but he's leaving the door open for the 2008-09 season.

[nksports]

Here are pictures of the Michigan State Fairgrounds Coliseum, and the rink/seats.

It may not be the lap of luxury, but it's got an old timey feel to it.

Anyone know where Wayne State plays? (Small D-I program in that area)

[COACHRUD]

Wayne State plays at the Michigan State Fairgrounds Coliseum.

[nksports]

If more than one team played there, who'd get the better dates?

and question II, can they sell beer there? (that answer would be no for the college team, NCAA rules, but it might be yes for the pro team. It's also a big revenue stream for both building and team).